Things to do in Laage

Understand why Germans think of Warnemuende Beach in the Baltic as a superb destination for a beach vacation. Long and wide and covered in soft sand, the beach is one of Germany’s best-loved sailing destinations, renowned for its calm waters and strong winds. Rent a sailboat and set off. The water may be cold, but it is a welcome relief on a hot summer’s day, especially after a rousing game of beach soccer on the sand.

As one of the Baltic’s oldest universities, the University of Rostock has shaped the city’s character since its founding. Rostock’s ambiance is deeply affected by its status as a university town, home to 14,000 students. The town’s pride in its university shows the devotion that locals give to the institution. Go for a walk or learn something new in this historic and preeminent academy.

On the northwestern corner of Rostock’s Old Town, the Kröpeliner Tor is certainly an imposing sight. Rising 175 feet (54 meters) above the city, it served as one of the entrances during the glory days of the Hanseatic League, from the 13th century onward. Sit in the adjacent park as you admire its stepped gables and black tile roof, imagining the procession that once passed inside and out.

One of Rostock’s most famous buildings, the Town Hall may be the oldest brick Gothic town hall in Germany. In the 13th century, it was simply three gabled houses, but was expanded and enhanced over time, culminating in the addition of its unique pastel pink façade and the gallery the runs the length of the building. Rostockers once came here to trade. Unfortunate students out late at night without a lantern were imprisoned. Join students, locals and tourists mingling here more casually now, all in appreciation of the Town Hall’s architecture and history.

The New Market, despite its name, has been the center of Rostock since the 13th century and remains a focal point for civic life. Crowned by a strikingly pink town hall and surrounded by patricians’ homes painted and decorated to look almost like cakes, it is a delightful place to start or end a day visiting Rostock’s Old Town. Shop for local produce in the daily market, have breakfast or lunch in one of the restaurants or simply sit back and watch the activity as the trams rumble through and people mill about.